The Hallstone Jewel. In 1919 after the First World War it was decided to embark on the building of a new headquarters for English Craft Masonry. Initially known as the Masonic Peace Memorial and later to become known as Freemasons Hall, in response to a suggestion by MW the Grand Master HRH The Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, as a memorial to the Brethren who had given their lives during the Great War.
In 1920 an appeal was made to every member of the Constitution for contributions to the fund that became to be known at the Masonic Million Memorial Fund. contributions were voluntary and were recognised by special commemorative jewels.
There are three types for the three categories of amounts donated, all of a similar basic design, but made of different precious metals and sizes. around 53,224 individual jewels were issued, donations of ten guineas or more would get a silver jewel, one hundred guineas or more would get a gold jewel. they both had a dark blue ribbon, and could be worn by the donating member.
There was also a gold and coloured enamel jewel that could be worn by Provincial and District Grand Masters of Provinces or Districts contributing an average of five hundred guineas per lodge.
At the June 1938 Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge, the final report was presented recording that well over One Million Pounds had been raised, the fund was closed on the 31st December 1938.
The design of the jewel is as a result of a competition won by Bro Cyril Saunders Spackman. and was described at the time as follows. ” the jewel is in the form of a cross, symbolising sacrifice, with a perfect square at the four ends, on the left and right, squares being the dates 1914-1918, the years that the supreme sacrifice was made. between these is a winged figure of Peace presenting the representation of a Temple with special Masonic allusion in the Pillars, Porch and Steps.
The jewels are suspended by the Square and Compasses, attached to a ribband, the whole thus symbolising the Craft’s gift of a Temple in memory of those Brethren who gave all for King and Country, Peace and Victory, Liberty and Brotherhood”.
The jewels were inscribed on the reverse with the Brothers Name and Lodge number. although it is unlikely that there are any active Masons entitled to wear them now these jewels remain as a testament to the efforts made to raise the funds needed.
Pictured is a Silver Hallstone Jewel held in the Provincial Museum that belonged to RW Bro V Carey, the reverse of the Jewel is engraved Bro V. G. Carey No. 4142.
RW Bro Carey was Initiated into Doyle’s Lodge of fellowship No.84 on the 12th March 1902 Passed on the 9th April 1902 and Raised on the 14th May 1902. He was a Founding member of Hansard Lodge No. 3515, St Martins Lodge No.4142 and Victor Carey Lodge No.6892.
He was installed as Provincial Grand Master on the 21st October 1927.
